Creating Worth Remembering: Jim Benton’s Journey from T-Shirts to Bestsellers

Beyond Hope Project with Jason Tharp

Join Jason Tharp in an inspiring conversation with Jim Benton, the creative genius behind “It’s Happy Bunny®,” “Dear Dumb Diary,” and “Franny K. Stein.” In this episode, Jim shares his journey from starting out in a T-shirt shop to achieving global success with his iconic creations. Discover how Jim navigates the challenges of the creative process, overcomes obstacles like a significant shoulder injury, and stays grounded amidst his achievements. Learn about the importance of constantly creating, finding hope in the face of adversity, and making things worth remembering. Perfect for aspiring creatives, fans of Jim’s work, and anyone looking for inspiration and practical advice on pursuing their passions.
FOLLOW JIM BENTON:
✩ WEBSITE - https://www.jimbenton.com
✩ WEBSITE - https://www.jokobo.com
✩ INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/jimbentonshots/
✩ AMAZON 📚- https://www.amazon.com/sk=jim+benton&crid=1U9GPD7ID10OY&sprefix=jim+benton%2Caps%2C113&ref=nb_sb_noss_1
LISTEN TO THE BEYOND HOPE PROJECT:
🎧 https://www.jasontharp.com/podcast
🍎 Apple: https://loom.ly/hhlMEFw
🎧 Spotify: https://loom.ly/2rtsDpA
MEET JIM BENTON:
Started out in a T-Shirt shop near home, illustrated for newspapers, contribution editor for 10 years on writer's digest magazine...joke writer on Whose Line is it Anyway...
Jim created IT’S HAPPY BUNNY®, which has sold over three-quarters of a billion dollars at retail. It’s won five top awards from the licensing industry, a NCS divisional award for greeting cards, and The American Librarians Association designated It’s Happy Bunny books as Top Picks for teen readers.
His series, DEAR DUMB DIARY, is a New York Times Best-seller, and has over ten million books in print. It was made into a musical Made-For-TV movie, which Jim co-wrote and produced.
His series, FRANNY K.STEIN, has sold over 5 million copies in 15 languages.
His cartoon collections, DOG BUTTS AND LOVE, and MAN I HATE CURSIVE were both nominated for Eisner Awards.
Jim posts new comics to GoComics and his work has won Four divisional Reuben Awards., and is currently nominated for number 5.
Other titles include CHERISE THE NIECE, THE END- ALMOST, COMET THE UNSTOPPABLE REINDEER, CLYDE, ATTACK OF THE STUFF ( nominated for a Milner award ), CATWAD, and BATMAN SQUAD with DC Comics.
Credited contributor on the new ‘Despicable Me’ movie from Illumination.

CONNECT WITH JASON:
✩ Website - https://www.jasontharp.com
✩ BHP - https://www.beyondhopeproject.com
✩ Beyond Hope Project Podcast - https://www.jasontharp.com/podcast
✩ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wondervillestudios/
✩ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wondervillestudios
✩ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thepowerupproject?_t=8e4jxMT9QFP&_r=1
✩ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/beyondhopeproject
OFFICIAL SHOP & BOOKSTORE:
📚 https://www.jasontharp.com/shop
MEET JASON:
Hi, I’m Jason!
Ever since I was six, I knew I was born to tell stories. As a best-selling author, illustrator, and sought-after speaker, I've turned my personal battles with grade four brain cancer, obesity, and negative self-talk into fuel for transformation. My keynotes don't just talk—they spark potential, ignite creativity, and build resilience. If you're ready for an engaging experience that challenges the status quo and propels your organization to new heights, let's turn your 'impossible today' into 'possible tomorrow' together!
For more information or to partner with me - https://www.jasontharp.com/bookjason